These headlines from Nigerian newspapers highlight urgent issues that demand more than just discussion. 

1. ‘Importers divert cargo to Togo, others to evade tariff hike’ – The Guardian

An increasing number of importers, evading multiple and soaring taxation across Nigerian ports, are heading to neighbouring West African countries, especially Togo, Ghana and Benin, to remain in business.

Our Take: Since tariff hikes are driving importers to friendlier shores, maybe the Nigerian Ports Authority should reconsider if pricing businesses out is the best strategy for economic growth. It is time to revisit these excessive charges and actually make our ports competitive.

2. ‘Federal government may ban trucks as tanker fire claims 493’ – Punch

The federal government, through the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has said that it may impose a ban on trucks with 60,000-litre capacity, preventing them from operating on federal highways.

Our Take: 493 lives lost should be more than enough reason for action, not another round of paperwork. If tankers carrying 60,000 litres are turning highways into fire zones, why are they still on the road? The NMDPRA should stop flirting with enforcement and actually implement the ban before our expressways become fuel-soaked death traps.

3. ‘Tax reform bills: House of Representatives want contentious sections expunged’ – Daily Trust

Members of the House of Representatives on Wednesday called for removal of contentious clauses from the tax reform bills as the proposed legislation scaled second reading at the Green Chamber.

Our Take: Dear lawmakers, while you’re busy debating ‘contentious clauses’, don’t forget the most contentious reality, Nigerians are already drowning in taxes they can’t afford. If this reform won’t ease the burden on the common man, then it’s just another fancy way of squeezing the struggling while the wealthy find loopholes. So, by all means, clean up the bill, but let’s make sure it’s for the people.